45052, North Bend, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 45052, North Bend, Ohio is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.17 percent of residents in 45052 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hospitalist Medicine Physicians Of Ohio, Professional Corporation with a distance of 8.02 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45052 (North Bend, Ohio)**

Considering a move to North Bend, Ohio (ZIP Code 45052)? For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), assessing healthcare access is paramount. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, providing a COPD Score based on commute times, public transit options, and available ride-sharing and medical transport services. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall quality of life.

North Bend, nestled along the Ohio River, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to the larger metropolitan area of Cincinnati. However, its location impacts healthcare accessibility, particularly for those with COPD, who require frequent medical appointments and specialized care. The COPD Score will consider the ease and reliability of reaching essential healthcare services.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary roadways serving North Bend are U.S. Route 50 (East/West) and Interstate 275, the Cincinnati beltway. These highways are vital for accessing hospitals, specialist clinics, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Drive times are significantly affected by traffic, especially during peak hours.

Traveling east on U.S. 50, one can reach Mercy Health – West Hospital in about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers comprehensive respiratory care, including pulmonary specialists and respiratory therapists. The journey involves navigating through the towns of Cleves and Addyston, encountering traffic lights and potential congestion.

Heading west on U.S. 50 leads to Dearborn County Hospital in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, typically a 25-40 minute drive. This hospital provides pulmonary services, but the commute involves crossing state lines and dealing with potential delays at the border.

Interstate 275 offers a faster route to various healthcare facilities. Driving east on I-275 allows access to University of Cincinnati Medical Center, a major academic medical center with renowned pulmonary specialists, in approximately 30-45 minutes. This route, however, can be subject to heavy traffic, particularly near the I-75 interchange.

**Public Transit Options**

The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), known as Metro, does not directly serve North Bend. This presents a significant challenge for individuals reliant on public transit. The closest Metro bus routes are located in neighboring communities, requiring a connecting service or a significant walk.

The lack of direct public transportation necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport. For individuals with COPD, this lack of public transportation is a serious detriment, hindering healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the North Bend area. However, their availability and reliability can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes ride-sharing a less dependable option for scheduled medical appointments.

Several medical transport services cater to the Cincinnati area, including North Bend. These services specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. They offer various levels of assistance, from basic transportation to stretcher-based services.

**ADA Accessibility**

While the Metro system does not directly serve North Bend, the Metro system is ADA-compliant. All Metro buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, accessing these services from North Bend would require a significant journey to a connecting route.

Medical transport services also offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. This is a crucial consideration for COPD patients, who may experience shortness of breath or other physical challenges.

**COPD Score and Conclusion**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the COPD Score for North Bend (45052) is **Moderate**. The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance provides a baseline level of access. However, the absence of direct public transportation and the variable reliability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport services adds to the cost and complexity of healthcare access. For individuals with COPD, this can lead to increased stress and anxiety, potentially impacting their health outcomes.

**Recommendations for Individuals with COPD Considering a Move to North Bend:**

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Ensure reliable access to a vehicle or arrange for consistent transportation support.
* **Explore Medical Transport Options:** Research and pre-arrange medical transport services for all appointments.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** Prioritize housing locations closer to healthcare facilities or along major roadways.
* **Plan for Traffic Delays:** Factor in potential traffic congestion when scheduling appointments.
* **Explore Telehealth Options:** Utilize telehealth services for routine check-ups and consultations when possible.

Moving to North Bend requires careful consideration of healthcare access. While the area offers some healthcare options, the transportation landscape presents challenges for individuals with COPD. By understanding these limitations and proactively planning for transportation needs, individuals can mitigate these challenges and maintain their quality of life.